"Silence of the Lambs" is based on the character Dr. Hannibal Lecter, who is a fictional creation by author Thomas Harris. While Lecter himself is not directly based on a specific serial killer, elements of his character and other characters in Harris's novels were inspired by real-life criminals, such as Ed Gein and Ted Bundy. The film portrays a complex cat-and-mouse interaction between Lecter and FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks to apprehend another killer, Buffalo Bill, whose character also draws from various real-life cases.

"Silence of the Lambs" is considered a psychological horror-thriller rather than a traditional horror movie. It features intense themes, suspenseful moments, and disturbing characters, particularly Hannibal Lecter and Buffalo Bill, which contribute to an unsettling atmosphere. The film is renowned for its exploration of the human psyche and the cat-and-mouse dynamic between Clarice Starling and Lecter. While it may not rely on jump scares, its tension and psychological depth can be quite frightening, making it impactful for viewers seeking a chilling experience.

Jodie Foster starred as Clarice Starling in "Silence of the Lambs," but before her, actress Michelle Pfeiffer was offered the role and turned it down. Pfeiffer cited her discomfort with the film's dark themes and the character's psychological intensity as reasons for declining the part. Foster’s performance ultimately earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying the film's legacy in cinematic history.

Jodie Foster did not reprise her role as Clarice Starling in "Hannibal" due to a combination of factors, including her concerns about the script and the direction of the sequel. Foster felt that the character's portrayal in "Hannibal" did not align with her vision for Clarice, as the sequel depicted her in a darker and more vulnerable light. Additionally, Foster was focused on other projects and priorities at the time. Ultimately, Julianne Moore took over the role for the film.